Nico, a fourth-grade student at West Schoo in New Canaan, is remembered as a “friendly child with a great smile”.

“Our thoughts are with the Mallozzi family on the loss of their son, Nico,” commented AYHL Commissioner Gene Palecco. “This senseless tragedy reminds us of the fragility of life and we offer our deepest condolences and sympathies to Nico’s family, his friends and his teammates.”

Funeral arrangements are unavailable at this time. A GoFundMe has been set up to assist the Mallozzi family during this incredibly trying time. Click here to access the page if you wish to make a contribution.

This weekend, the AYHL will hold a moment of silent tribute for Nico prior to every home game across all levels. The thoughts and prayers of the entire AYHL are with the Mallozzi family and the Connecticut RoughRiders organization during this time.

The Atlantic Youth Hockey League is the USA Hockey-sanctioned Tier I AAA youth hockey league of the Atlantic District. From Connecticut to Maryland, the AYHL’s membership is comprised of over 100 teams, representing four districts, and is spread across six playing divisions. The AYHL’s mission is to develop young players with competition, fun, and good sportsmanship, and move them on to the next phase of their hockey career. With a distinguished alumni list of players that spent a portion of their playing career in the AYHL, today’s players choose to play in the AYHL knowing that it is a proven stepping stone for those serious in their hockey pursuits.